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Uru ducked past the entrance to the cave - there were still a few pride members inside - and made for the trail that wound its way up to the peak. It was a bit of a climb, but she finally made it to the top...and lo and behold, there sat the young cub Taka, looking out at the kingdom. "Good morning, son," she said quietly, coming up behind him. "What are you doing up here?" There was a long pause before the cub answered. "Watching," Taka finally mumbled, not turning to look at her, "and thinking." "Thinking? About what?" Taka let out a sharp breath. "Muffy was playing rough yesterday." "Aw..." Uru's heart panged with sympathy. "Did he hurt you?" Taka sniffled. "Yeah." He turned and showed Uru his arm. There was a long scratch running the length of it. "Oh, you poor thing!" Uru drew Taka to her and began to lick his forehead. "I'm sorry I couldn't be there for you yesterday." Taka snuggled up against his mother. She could feel his tears seeping into her fur. "I'm just glad you're here now, Mom," he sobbed gently. Uru smiled gently as a lone tear of joy trickled out of her eye. "Me too," she whispered. CONGRATULATIONS! |